Polar has a new smartwatch called the Vantage V3. One cool thing about it is its bright AMOLED screen. We’ve seen this kind of screen in some Garmin watches too.
But wait, Polar also has another watch with this screen – the Ignite 3. If you’re thinking of getting a new Polar watch, you might be looking at these two.
So, which one should you buy? What makes them different? Let’s compare them and help you decide.
Polar Vantage V3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Pricing
The Vantage V3 is now up for grabs. It comes in three beautiful colors: night black, sky blue, and sunrise apricot.
If you want one, it’ll cost you:
- In the US: $599.90
- In the UK: €599.90
For those who want a little more accuracy in tracking their heart rate, there’s a special offer. You can get the Vantage V3 bundled with Polar’s famous H10 heart rate monitor. This combo is priced at $649.90 or €649.90.
The Ignite 3 is already out and you can get it straight from Polar or from other big online stores like Amazon. Here’s what you might expect to pay:
- In the US: $329.95
- In the UK: £289
Polar Vantage V3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Specs Comparison
| Feature/Specification | Polar Vantage V3 | Polar Ignite 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimension | 47 x 50.8 x 14.5 mm | 43 x 43 x 9.5 mm |
| Weight | 57 g (39 g Without Wristband) | 35 grams |
| Colors | Sunrise Apricot, Night Black, Sky Blue | Brown Copper, Greige Sand, Night Black, Purple Dusk |
| Display Type | 1.39 Inch AMOLED | 1.28 Inch AMOLED |
| Display Resolution | 454 × 454 | 416 x 416 pixels |
| Touch Screen | Yes | Yes |
| CPU Speed | 275 MHz | 192 MHz |
| Storage | 32 GB | 32 MB |
| GPS | Yes (dual-band) | Yes (dual-band) |
| Water Resistance | WR50 | WR30 |
| Elixir biosensing technology | Yes | No |
| Sensors | Accelerometer, Barometer, ECG, SpO2, Skin Temperature, HR, Compass | Optical heart rate, accelerometer |
| Battery Capacity | 488 mAh Li-Po, Training mode: up to 61 h, Watch Mode: up to 192 h, Power Save: up to 140 h | 215mAh, Up to 120 hours, up to 5 days |
| Price | $599.90 / €599.90 | $330 |
Related:
- Polar Vantage V3 vs Vantage V2: What’s the Difference?
- Polar Ignite 3 vs Coros Pace 2: Which Should You Buy?
- Polar Ignite 3 vs Vantage M2: Which Should You Buy?
Polar Vantage V3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Design & Build
Both the Polar Vantage V3 and the Ignite 3 have embraced the latest technology, but they have their own distinct features.
The Vantage V3 stands out with its 1.39-inch AMOLED touchscreen that boasts an impressive 462ppi, ensuring clarity even under direct sunlight. The transition to standard 22 mm straps simplifies the watch-wearing experience, and the introduction of a USB-C charging cable is both user-friendly and modern. It’s waterproofing up to 50m enhances durability, with the Gorilla Glass 3 display featuring a gentle curve for an elegant touch. Users thinking of adding screen protectors should be mindful of this curvature.
In contrast, the Ignite 3 shines with its 1.28-inch display which, once powered, is a sight to behold with its vibrant colors. While it’s aesthetically pleasing with its vertical grooves on the bezel, there’s potential for marks and scratches over time. It’s a lightweight marvel at only 35 grams and a mere 9.5mm thickness. Color options are aplenty, from Night Black to Brown Copper, with the latter coming with an extra strap.
Polar Vantage V3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Features
Polar Vantage V3:
- Multiband GPS: The Vantage V3 is equipped with a new multiband GPS chipset that builds upon the dual-frequency GPS seen in the Polar Ignite. The redesigned antenna promises enhanced GPS accuracy, essential for those relying on precise location data during outdoor activities.
- Elixir Biosensing Technology: Polar’s new Elixir Biosensing Technology is a combination of three core components. This includes the Gen 4 Optical heart rate sensor which, while offering ECG functionality, lacks medical certification and abnormal rhythm detection. Additionally, the SP2 sensing feature provides real-time blood oxygenation levels, and there’s a skin temperature sensor that captures nightly variations.
- Flashlight Feature: A unique feature is the flashlight that uses the display to illuminate dark surroundings. However, there’s potential for future upgrades, like multiple brightness levels or a red light option.
- Offline Mapping: A game-changer is the offline mapping. It allows users to download maps directly to their watch. Basic maps of North America and Europe are preloaded. Route planning is made easier with support from Komoot. However, on-demand routing is currently missing, though Polar hints at future updates.
Polar Ignite 3:
- Smartwatch Capabilities: At its core, the Ignite 3 offers essential features like notifications, alarms, timers, and music control. However, there are notable absences, such as contactless payments, call answering, or sending texts. This necessitates users to carry their phones, especially if they wish to access their music collection.
- GPS System: It also has dual-band GPS.
- Sleep and Training Features: SleepWise monitors sleep while Nightly Recharge gauges how your body responds to stress. The FitSpark feature suggests exercises based on your training load and recovery needs. In-training voice guidance is a valuable addition.
Polar Vantage V3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Battery Life
Both the Vantage V3 and Ignite 3 offer varied battery lives tailored to different usage needs, but how do they stack up?
Polar Vantage V3:
The V3 showcases impressive battery life flexibility, ideal for various users:
- For those on extended activities, the V3 offers up to 140 hours in its low-power GPS mode.
- For everyday use, you can expect up to 8 days in gesture-based mode.
The 129% claimed increase in the device’s processor speed hasn’t seemed to compromise its longevity. This powerful processor boost has been paired with a battery life that ensures users can enjoy the enhanced user interface performance without constantly reaching for the charger.
Polar Ignite 3:
Polar’s claims for the Ignite 3’s battery life are:
- 5 days in standard watch mode.
- Up to 30 hours of continuous training using both GPS and heart rate monitoring.
However, real-world usage paints a slightly different picture. Despite the promising figures, users may find the Ignite 3’s battery draining quicker during average daily tasks. This might make them feel the need to charge the watch more frequently than anticipated based on the official specifications.
Polar Vantage V3 vs Polar Ignite 3: Which Should You Buy?
Buy Polar Vantage V3 if…
- Budget isn’t a primary concern. It’s priced higher than the Ignite 3.
- Battery life is critical. With up to 140 hours in low-power GPS mode and 8 days in gesture-based mode, it outlasts the Ignite 3.
- You require advanced features, like the new multi-band GPS chipset for enhanced location accuracy, Elixir Biosensing Technology for comprehensive health metrics, a flashlight feature, and offline mapping.
Buy Polar Ignite 3 if…
- You’re on a budget. It’s more affordable than the Vantage V3.
- You appreciate a lightweight and sleek design. Weighing only 35 grams and 9.5mm thick, it’s compact and comes in multiple color options.
- Basic smartwatch features suffice. While it offers core smartwatch features, it does have some omissions, such as the absence of contactless payments or answering calls.
- You’re okay with a moderate battery life. Despite the claims, real-world usage might require more frequent charging.
